In Memory of Agnes Harcar MS’58, PhD’63
Agnes was born in Trenton, New Jersey, on February 18, 1932. She died in Reno, Nevada, on May 4, 2026, at age 94. Agnes was one of 12 siblings and was next to the youngest. Her parents were George Harcar and Mary Gress. From an early age, Agnes showed her independence and determination walking herself to school to enroll in kindergarten. Agnes earned her PhD in speech from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 1963 and her master’s degree in 1958. She went on to become a college professor, teaching speech. Agnes spent 20 years living in Tokyo, Japan, where she taught English. She traveled extensively throughout her life and visited Europe, South America, Asia, and the Middle East. Agnes was interested and interesting. She had a deep Catholic faith that meant a great deal to her throughout her life. At the care facilities where Agnes lived, she made friends and became part of a girl group known as the “Golden Girls.” She was a great listener and made the people around her feel important. Agnes loved playing bingo and listening to music, especially Elvis. She also loved ice cream and lots of sugar and creamer in her tea. Agnes will be remembered for her kindness, intelligence and thoughtful ways. She had a great sense of humor. In her later years, Agnes got kind and loving care from the staff at the facilities where she lived, for which her loved ones are deeply grateful. Agnes is survived by her very dear friend, Susie Lang and her goddaughter, Margaret Davis. Agnes is deeply missed and will be loved forever.
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